Otonari No Tenshi - sama Ni Itsunomanika Dame Ningen Ni Sareteita Ken
Chapter 9: The Birthday of Tenshi

"Amane, ~ how?"

The final semester exam was finally over, and the students were finally released from the depression-inducing exam. They gathered in several groups in the classroom, with more enthusiasm.

Amane and Itsuki were relieved that their exam was also over, judging their performance this time around.

"Hm? It's normal, not too bad."

Amane naturally answered that question, but there really wasn't much to say. All questions are within the scope of testing, and it is not too difficult if He has revised them correctly.

He did not encounter much difficulty in this test, so Amane felt that there was nothing different from the test last time.

While Amane was a person who hated complexity, he was not lazy in his learning. He understood most of the lessons, and while he had trouble getting a perfect score, he was at least sure he could get about 80-90% of the test scores.

"You're probably gonna get in the top 30 .. you're smart, you."

"Learn every day."

"You're telling me to do what you usually do every day?"

"I don't want to hear it from you when you're just being friendly with your boyfriend and not learning."

The difference between Amane and Itsuki is not in the brain, but because Itsuki spends too much time on her boyfriend, Chitose.

Itsuki himself was not stupid, and He could rank highly if He intended so, but unfortunately, He prioritized most of his time to Chitose, and was ranked lower than Amane.

"... Got a nice girlfriend tau?"

"Yes yes."

"Hey Amane, you should look for him too."

"Cowok shed tears of blood just to want a boyfriend."

There are a bunch of people who want a partner, and for certain people, Itsuki's careless words might make them angry.

Amane didn't mean to get angry, and at this point, he had no desire to find a girlfriend, so he only meant to serve Itsuki.

"How do I get a girlfriend?"

"Double dating."

"So, am I supposed to be fascinated with my imaginary boyfriend?"

"Then show us!"

"You think I have personality for that?"

"... No way, huh?"

"Of course."

Amane also had a self-awareness of his personality that was too flat.

He himself avoids hassles as much as possible, and is too honest. Some may find it too flat, and others usually have a bad impression of it. How could such a personality possibly get a girlfriend.

And if Amane somehow gets a girlfriend, the relationship between them will be completely bland. At the very least, it did not stand out like Itsuki's relationship.

"No, Amane, you have to find someone you like. By the way, girls will have a different view of you if you cut your bangs, look a little fresher, and straighten your back."

Amane felt Itsuki had an accurate opinion of himself. He is not super handsome like Yuuta, or the type that looks cool like Itsuki, but he is not too ugly either.

If he puts a little makeup on himself, and notices his habits, he won't lose to a normal High School guy.

But even if He were to really make up for himself, Amane was not the type to approach others.

"People who are attracted to you just because of appearance are not the loyal type."

"You said that, but if they're not interested in you, you can't understand her personality, can you?"

"... Even so, I'm not looking for a boyfriend."

And even if he does, his girlfriend's delusions will be shattered when he sees Amane's daily life.

Amane is a human with zero ability to live alone, unfriendly to others. Even He would grimace at himself, thinking that he wanted to meet a girl who would be interested in him.

After all, He hated interacting with others, his personality was no match for this, and He had no intention of getting it.

But with Mahiru cooking in her apartment, it would be a tragedy if she had a boyfriend. Amane had no intention of getting it, and was not worried about it, but that one reason alone prevented him from doing so.

At this point, the priority is "Makan Mahiru > get a girlfriend", and it can not change easily.

"You're really boring .. would Chii introduce some of his friends?"

"Don't. Most of Chitose's friends are noisy, and just having one as a girlfriend is enough of a headache."

"You're gloomy, Amane, by the way."

"Whisper you."

"Well, if you say so, I'll let it go for now. But isn't it unbearable to not have a boyfriend, just spend your time alone during this wonderful High School life?"

"No need, and that sounds troublesome."

What do you think of school life, he doesn't actually have such thoughts, but a girlfriend is really a must, and He has no thought of looking for her.

In addition, it is not easy to find it, and it is not easy to fall in love.

"... Too bad."

"Yes yes."

"But yeah, you'll change when you have someone you like, Amane?"

"Where does that trust come from."

"That's because you're the type of person who'll spoil your lover like a kitten."

"Whatever you say."

Amane felt that he would definitely not be a sickening girlfriend, and could not imagine himself in such a situation, so he put aside Itsuki's words as he left.

Itsuki in turn looked at Amane dumbfoundedly.

"Ikkun, do you want to go home~?"

"Ohh, Chii?"

Chitose just so happens to appear, and the two of them seem to agree to go home together. Amane's conversation with Itsuki was just to spend time with Itsuki.

So Amane turned around, and found a tomboy girl with reddish-brown hair, beaming as she waved at them, or rather, at Itsuki.

The jovial nature and sincere smile were rather dazzling to Amane. In keeping with her appearance, she was a friendly, spirited girl, and the type that always caused a commotion no matter good or bad.

She was a different type of beauty from Mahiru, and she ran towards them, grinning.

Amane really hoped that if he acted quietly, because every time he appeared, Amane would be teased continuously.

"Say, Chii, don't you think Amane is the type to spoil his girlfriend?"

"Enough with that."

"Eh, what? Amane has a girlfriend?"

"No."

"Ehhh ~, What ~. I want to hang out with him."

He clicked his tongue and looked disappointed.

"Having with you means having an overly aggressive skin. Even I'd feel sorry for my imaginary boyfriend if I had one."

"Ehh, so you have an imaginary boyfriend?"

"I told you if I had, okay!?"

"Joking around ~"

"It feels tiring to deal with you ..."

"That's because you lack stamina, Amane."

"Even if I had, it'd run out because it's serving you ..."

More than physical stamina, he felt his mind would be tired. Amane usually doesn't talk to anyone other than those who are familiar with him, don't stand out, and lead a listless school life. It would be very difficult for him to talk to hyperactive people like Chitose.

Despite the aloof answer, Chitose didn't mind at all, "You don't look good" she told a jaded-looking Amane, beaming happily.

"Hurry up and get used to it." Itsuki randomly threw out this suggestion, and all Amane could do was let out a long sigh.

...----------------...

"... What are you doing?"

Amane returned to his apartment, ate dinner made by Mahiru, and after washing the dishes. He saw Mahiru putting the test paper on the living room table.

Washing the dishes was a rotating task for them, but Amane took the opportunity to wash first, not wanting to add more workload to Mahiru, and so Mahiru spent much of his time in the living room. He said that if he gave it all up to Amane and went back to his apartment, he would feel a little bad.

"Checking for answers."

"Well, I can see it."

He seemed to be checking his answers, checking the textbook, and seeing if the answers were wrong or not.

"So how?"

"If I don't write the wrong answer, perfect value."

"Well, as expected of you."

Mahiru's reply remained boring when she mentioned that she could get a perfect score, and Amane also showed no extreme reaction.

The lack of surprises because Mahiru always ranked first in the year for their school grades.

Amane felt that Mahiru could do it, and thought that he would get more marks from the start.

"I don't hate learning. Anyway, I've learned everything I had to teach a year ago, so all I need to do is review."

"Woaahh, as expected of you ..."

"Aren't you also smart, Fujimiya-san?"

"So, you know my grades?"

"I had an impression when you were listed on the ranking list."

It seems that Mahiru had known Amane before he first spoke to him.

Amane assumed that those who were not in the single-digit rankings, did not deserve Mahiru's attention, but he mentioned Amane's rankings before, so it seemed like he was paying attention to her.

Amane strives hard to learn not because of such serious thinking. That was the condition his family gave him.

"Well, that's a condition for me to live alone. Defend my grades."

When she was allowed to live alone, Amane was told not to let her grades drop.

There is also a condition under which Amane must return home every half year, but it can be arranged during a long holiday, so that his family will not interfere in his affairs if He maintains his values.

"I'm just working hard enough so they don't get me in trouble, but I can't do my best like you. You really tried hard."

"... It's important to try hard."

Mahiru muttered while looking down.

The bangs of her hair covered her expression, but surely she felt unhappy in the slightest.

Even so, she quickly raised her head, returning to her usual expression, so Amane lost the chance to see her.

And even if he had the chance, Amane wouldn't ask. After all, he seemed to be enduring the pain.

From time to time, Mahiru would show that expression.

He would never say why he looked so painful, so disgusted but it seemed like he was bound by certain things, fighting against something.

It is not difficult to imagine that the cause is his family environment.

So, it felt inappropriate for Amane to interfere.

He knew very well that it was an area that should not be disturbed by him as an outsider, so He kept his distance as his neighbor all this time.

Amane also has something that no one else wants to talk about. He too often feels that outside distractions are really rude, and finds himself more grateful when others pretend not to notice them.

Mahiru did her best to hide the emotions she had, "I'll leave now." Say it with its usual tone, and then put the textbook and the post sheet into the bag.

Amane did not intend to stop him, "I understand." and answered him briefly while looking towards Mahiru.

He finished packing all the items he had taken, and stood up from where he was sitting when Amane noticed that something was not his on the back of the empty cup.

He reached out his hand, and found a plastic box containing student IDs, which every student had.

Apparently, Mahiru took it out along with her textbooks, and forgot to worry about it again.

Amane looked at the picture of his face along with his name, student number, birthday and blood type, simple information, and called out to him while Mahiru was wearing shoes at the entrance.

"You forgot this."

"Ahh, sorry for making you bring it to me. Then good night."

"Good night."

He bowed politely, and left his apartment. As Amane watched Mahiru disappear behind the door, he gently sighed.

He remembered the date written on the student card .. especially the month and day, and placed his hand on his forehead.

"... Four more days?"

If Amane hadn't seen Mahiru's student card, he would never have known about Mahiru's birthday. If only I had known earlier, he murmured while sighing again.

...----------------...

"So, do you have anything you want?"

The next day, Amane took the opportunity to bring the matter to Mahiru at dinner.

He said it was a birthday present. Amane didn't mean anything, and just wanted to return the favor to him. He decided to give her a gift for Mahiru.

But that sounds very suspicious.

He found his question impolite, even rude, and began to regret it. But Mahiru looked at him in wonder.

"Why did you suddenly ask this?"

"Well, it looks like you don't have anything you want, so I'm just asking because I'm curious."

"It's still too sudden ..."

Amane felt that He could do better by trying to trick him, but He could not retract the question He had already said.

Lucky or not, it seems Mahiru does not realize that it is his birthday.

In the end, Mahiru probably thought that Amane could not possibly know about his birthday, and never thought about it.

"so apparently. So what do I need now? Or what do I want?"

"What do you want?"

"... Grindstone."

Amane asked again without thinking, as his answer was completely beyond his expectations.

Or rather, no one expected a high school girl to say that that was what she wanted.

Usually, they want cosmetics, accessories, bags, and such items. Amane could not imagine that Mahiru would ask for a tool to sharpen the metal.

"Yes, grindstone. I've had a few, but I wish I had a better grindstone."

"Hey, you're a high school girl."

"Please don't think of me as an ordinary High School girl."

His words made Amane speechless.

No matter how lightly they say, Mahiru really cannot be called an ordinary High School girl.

She was already famous as Tenshi in school, equipped with brains and talent, proficient in doing household chores and cooking. Caring for Amane, who had absolutely no hope in homework, anyone would assume that she was a married girl.

(But who would have imagined that he wanted a grindstone.)

Apparently, only Mahiru is the only high school girl who wants a whetstone.

"You didn't buy it yourself?"

"It's not that I can't, but I often don't have a chance, and it's relatively expensive, so I don't have one. Anyway, I already have some grindstones, so I don't really need them."

When he mentioned that he had some, Amane could not imagine how Mahiru would become in the future.

"... We have a high school girl sharpening her knife here."

"But there is, really."

"Even if there is, you're the only one I know, no matter who wants to have a grindstone."

"It sounds like a rare thing. Not bad."

"What do you mean not bad ..."

It was rare to see a girl like such a thing, so Amane had no idea what Mahiru wanted.

He himself was out of his mind, and Mahiru tilted his head in doubt.

...----------------...

"Hey Itsuki."

Since He did not know what kind of things Mahiru wanted, He could only rely on his last effort, to ask Itsuki.

He had anticipated that since Itsuki had a boyfriend like Chitose, he had a premonition about the thought process of a girl, a rough idea of what a girl wanted.

He does not know if Mahiru is ordinary, but Amane concludes that, at the very least, Mahiru will not hate anything a girl wants.

"What?"

"What gift did you give Chitose?"

Amane thought it would be fine if he asked what Itsuki gave him, asking him, but Itsuki instead looked at him in surprise.

"Eh, you want to give a present to the girl you like?"

"You think I'm the kind of person who does that?"

"No."

"Yes, right."

"So, why are you asking?"

"Someone I know is about to have a birthday. Just for reference."

Amane would take this reference to the next level, and go to buy it, but he didn't want to say that.

"Uh huh's. The best thing is something he likes. After all, you usually have to investigate first. This is the trick to maintaining a good relationship."

"Had told you she wasn't my boyfriend."

Amane can imagine how dangerous it would be if Mahiru was his girlfriend. In many senses (mostly killing intent around him), and afraid of the idea.

It is true that Amane feels comfortable with her, but the two are only together, but the desire to be bound. That's not love at all.

Although He considered Mahiru to be cute, He did not intend to end such a relationship. That was how he felt about Mahiru.

"What does he want ... what if I don't know?"

"It's gotta see how close you are to him. If your relationship is good, giving accessories should be fine, but if you're not that close, some small items or consumables; she should be happy with the flowers, she said, but sometimes it'll make things complicated."

"... You're very experienced at this."

"I learned from my experience."

Originally, Itsuki and Chitose were not a friendly couple. It seems they got closer during Junior High. Amane is in a different Middle School than them, so he doesn't know the details, but it seems they had a lot of trouble before they started dating. Even at this point, Amane heard rumors about their past.

Itsuki must have pondered a bit about choosing a gift for Chitose, so the choice he proposed might have been made after much deliberation.

"Ah, but hand cream should be fine too."

"Krim hand?"

An unexpected choice made Amane reflect. With a cheerful expression, Itsuki explained it.

"A gift like that is effective for any age group. Students use textbooks and notebooks every day for classes, and their hands dry easily; working adults can also dry their hands by typing in an AC room; housewives usually soak their hands in water, and their hands get rough easily. It can really be used as a gift."

"Hmm, it feels so disgusting because you know so much."

"Well, you're the one who asked first."

Plaque, Amane's back was kicked from behind, but they just laughed at him, because it was just a casual joke.

(Krim hand?)

It's true, this might not make it difficult.

Amane confirms his duty to wash the dishes after dinner, but Mahiru will definitely wash the items in his house. His hands will be dry too.

Of course, looking at his delicate hands, Mahiru often took care of him. In that case, buying such skin care products should be fine.

"Well, I'll consider it."

"Ask Chii later. People of the same sex may have different ideas."

"... Ehh."

"It's time you got used to it, okay?"

Amane doesn't hate him, of course, but he feels that Chitose is the type of person he can't handle, and isn't enthusiastic about prospects.

...----------------...

"Ehh ~? You want to buy a birthday present for a girl, Amane?"

Rarely, really rarely, that was the reaction Chitose had when she grinned, or rather, smiled widely. Amane exerted all his strength to not let his cheeks twitch.

After school, he went to Chitose's classroom to ask, and as expected, he was very enthusiastic. What's more, Itsuki said that he wasn't worried about Amane at all, so he returned home after texting Chitose.

As soon as Amane saw his overjoyed face, he could only sigh tiredly.

(This is why I don't want to rely on Chitose.)

If Amane asked him, Chitose would definitely ask further and tease him, so He really did not want to. He was not unwilling to help, but the undeniable fact was that Amane was bad at dealing with Chitose.

"So that's what Ikkun's message means 'I'll hand Amane to you, Chii'." So you need my help?"

"You're the only girl I can count on, Chitose."

"I'll feel something if you say it out loud."

She was a little speechless as she looked towards him, even a look of pity, but Amane ignored her.

In fact, Amane has no girlfriends other than Chitose. He only remembered the faces of the other girls in his class, and did not have a presumptuous face to ask for their help.

"Well, you don't understand what a girl thinks, Amane. I'll help you. This Chitose-san will talk about it with you."

"... I owe you."

"What do you mean, owe me one? Although I look like this, but I know the heart of a perfect girl!"

"At least, you're a girl."

"Why did you add at least? Where else do I look like a guy?"

Chitose raised his chest proudly, but unfortunately for Amane who could see Mahiru every day, that part was really conservative, his eyes finally looked down.

But Chitose is popular among boys.

She has a cheerful, friendly personality and gets along with everyone. His popularity is much different from Mahiru, and he has always been a class mood maker.

It is said that he was part of the running club during Junior High, his slender body, tight legs and smooth legs made him very popular. Even Amane agreed on a smooth leg, and Itsuki had persuaded the other guys "I'd be mad if you kept staring at my boyfriend."

"Ah yes yes, you are indeed a sweet girl ~."

In fact, she was a bit not very friendly, although cute was the proper term to describe her. Its popularity can be understood.

”... And it's because of your attitude that people misunderstand you. Seriously."

"Stop taking care of other people's business."

"Yes yes. So, for a girl? What kind of girl?

He asked, basically implying that he did not know how to start without knowing it. Amane understood that if He accidentally stumbled, He would be seduced. Therefore, he chose his words carefully.

"She's the girl I know, a little younger. For the rest, I will exercise my right to be silent."

"Hey .. if I don't know what he likes, what kind of person he's looking for, I can't give you any advice."

"Maybe you can suggest some things based on how you feel, Chitose? I'll choose from there."

"Well, I know you won't say it. How else to."

Chitose's words made sense, but if Amane said it, it was He was on good terms with a young girl, and the topic would deviate in a strange direction. He might even find out the truth.

He tried his best to avoid the situation, and said nothing more. Chitose also knew that Amane was unwilling to say anything, and did not ask any further.

"Hmm, let's see ... I don't know how exactly the relationship works, but if he's someone you talk to a lot, I would be happy to get something from someone like you. Basically, he wasn't looking for consumer goods or expensive everyday items."

"That's what Itsuki said as well."

"Ikkun completely understood the heart of a girl. Well if there are no conditions, some snacks, handkerchiefs, wallets, or something small is definitely still acceptable. But if I received an accessory from you, I would think like "What, do you want to bribe me!?", that kind of feeling."

"What's the point of bribing you here?"

Can I get something nice from you, Amane looked at her with such a look, "I think so." Chitose replied with a smile.

"Something small will be better."

"... So it is."

"Not really."

Of course, Amane is not unhappy about it, but he is worried that Mahiru will not like it.

If Amane gives something small to him, he has to consider his qualities. Mahiru may have a luxury preference, and a type that chooses something with quality and functionality. Amane does not know if his choice will be accepted in Mahiru's eyes.

Chitose seemed to notice that Amane did not accept this choice, "Hm." so he thought for a while, and said.

"... Well, you can also give him something funny."

"... Something funny?"

"You should look at her interests first, but I think you can also give her funny things .. like dolls, key chains, and such."

This suggestion was completely unexpected for Amane, who blinked a few times. Chitose giggled, looking at his face.

"You know, no matter what your age, girls often like funny things. Some adults still keep dolls, so I think there should be a lot of people who like dolls."

"... Doll, huh?"

Although he does not know the tendency of Mahiru, but Amane remembers seeing funny frills in his clothes, along with him who was wearing lacy clothes. He probably doesn't hate cute things.

Would Mahiru be happy if Amane gave her a doll.

"Oh, now you look a little interested, don't you?"

As soon as he noticed a reaction from Amane, Chitose giggled. The first one felt a little conflicted, but He still nodded, and sighed a little.

"... But it's too weird for me to go buy a doll right now, isn't it?"

"You're going to buy a present, and that's what you're worried about?"

"At this age, it's embarrassing for a guy to bring a doll to the cashier."

"You don't have the guts, yeah."

"Ugh."

He was completely right, but Amane felt very conflicted because he was so outspoken.

He should have thrown away all his embarrassment, but after all, it felt very awkward for him to buy a doll by himself.

Luckily, Chitose was with him. There may be a chance he's walking home with her.

That possibility is still possible.

"... Chitose, please."

"Please?"

"... Go shopping with me."

"Now what should I do, yes ~."

Chitose is an impatient girl.

Of course, he did not really intend to reject her. He pretends to look frustrated just to tease Amane, and to harden his resolve.

"I beg you, seriously."

"Hmmm, I have no problem with that anyway, you know?.. By the way, Amane-kun, I want to eat something sweet. There is a crepes shop in front of the station selling delicious limited edition items ~."

"... Please allow me to treat you."

"Yay!"

As soon as Chitose cunningly asked for a treat, his face twitched. But it was still cheap, and he nodded in agreement.

It is much easier to buy one crepe than to go to a store that is exclusively for girls alone.

And as Chitose grinned, Amane let out a long sigh, quietly calculating the budget he had in his wallet.

...----------------...

After he finished asking Itsuki and Chitose for advice, Amane finally chose a gift, and on Mahiru's birthday, he looked at her back, feeling very tense.

His payment to Chitose was a special pack of crepe from the station's front store (a winter edition limited berry), and after convincing him to buy something else, Amane added that to his gift ... but at this point, he wondered how to hand it over to Mahiru.

The person who was supposed to celebrate his birthday was having dinner as usual.

He doesn't know what the menu is, but it looks like he makes Japanese food. He acted naturally as usual, there was nothing too different about him.

He could not feel the birthday vibe from her. The way he acted was so calm, one would wonder if he remembered it or not.

Even after dinner was served, nothing changed. They chatted at dinner, ate as usual.

Amane really didn't know when he should give her a gift, so He looked towards the paper bag with the gift hidden behind the sofa, frowning.

After the dinner was over, Amane cleaned the table, and returned to the living room, and saw Mahiru who was sitting on the sofa. He seems to have brought a book here.

Even while reading the book, he looked like he was inside a painting. It really fits with his nickname Tenshi.

Amane was confused as to whether he should sit next to her. So he lifted up the bag that was placed there, and sat down next to it.

Mahiru suddenly raised her head.

He probably noticed Amane's presence and the wrinkles of the paper bag, and his caramel-colored eyes looked towards Amane, and then towards the paper bag he was holding.

He looks a bit confused. It seemed that at this moment, he had yet to realize that today was his birthday.

"This. Accept it."

Amane shifted the bag to Mahiru's knee, making him even more flabbergasted.

"What's this?"

"Isn't it your birthday?"

"Indeed .. but how do you know? I don't remember mentioning it to anyone else."

He had a look of caution in his eyes, "You left your student card on the table last time", but as soon as Mahiru heard that, he might accept this explanation, and return to his usual look.

"You don't have to worry. I'm not celebrating my birthday anyway."

Amane probably did not mistake the cold and indifferent voice from him.

Looking at the look in his eyes, it seemed that the word birthday itself was a taboo to him.

I see, so did Amane.

Although it was his birthday, he did not have a change of attitude not because he did not remember it.

He probably forgot about it because it troubled him, perhaps.

Otherwise, it was possible that his tone of voice would be that cold.

"Ah, so so. Think of it as gratitude for taking care of me all this time. I just want to repay you somehow."

So Amane handed over the gift to Mahiru on that grounds, well, you shouldn't celebrate your birthday, but a gift for your good. Accept this as a thank you, and not a birthday.

Amane eats delicious food every day and Mahiru even helps him clean his apartment from time to time. It's a trivial thing, but he really takes care of her. Even if it was a small thing, Amane wanted to return Mahiru's favor.

While Amane readily accepted the reason, he insisted on giving a gift, which left him somewhat confused. So Mahiru frowned slightly upon receiving the reward.

He looked towards the item in the paper-wrapped bag.

"... Can I open it now?"

"certain."

Amane nodded, and Mahiru nervously grabbed her hand into the bag, taking out the box. He carefully removed the wrapping paper, and unbonded the tape.

Amane himself felt very nervous to ask someone else to open a gift in front of him.

Inside is a hand cream that Itsuki recommends. Amane bought it in a set, so the big box contained a few snacks as well.

For the record, the hand cream is odorless and is suitable for household chores, not scented ones. It feels soft on the skin, the selling point is to keep the skin moisturized.

Amane checked the reviews on the internet, and it seemed like he didn't have to worry about the effect, perhaps.

"Sorry, it's not something valuable. I think your hands will get dry while doing homework. Some are scentless, but I think you already have them. I hear it's gentle to the skin, even effective."

"Practical stuff."

"Actually, you often emphasize practical items."

"I guess so. Thank you very much."

You understand me very well, Mahiru said with a smile, and Amane strayed from the nervousness.

It seemed like Mahiru did not have a bad impression of him.

There is one other item .. but it would be a shame for Amane to open it in front of Mahiru. If possible, he wants Mahiru to realize it in his own room.

Unfortunately, it seems Mahiru noticed there was something else inside the bag, and peered into it.

"... Why are there two?"

"Ah, no, well, actually. It was a selfish and subjective addition."

"extra?"

"... Addition."

Amane turned his face away and only answered so. Mahiru tilted her head, not understanding what Amane meant, but she felt it would be faster to open the contents, so she took out the item.

It uses a color packaging similar to the bag, so it does not stand out, and cram it to the bottom. This item was too big and bulging. There's no way Mahiru won't notice.

It does not contain a box, but a polyster bag. The size is large enough to hold both hands Mahiru.

Mahiru carefully removed the dark blue ribbon, and while Amane was staring at her (what can I go from here now) ~ Mahiru carefully opened the contents.

With both hands, he carefully lifted the thing, and looked somewhat surprised as his eyes widened.

"... A bear?"

What Mahiru muttered was the true identity of that thing.

It was a doll that was not too big, the size of an elementary school girl.

The doll has faded fur similar to Mahiru's hair. On his neck was an aqua blue ribbon tied like a necklace.

The doll shows a plain look, dark shiny bulla accessories sewn as eyes, reflecting Mahiru.

He's probably thinking, doll? When we were in High School?

No matter how old they are, girls often like funny things. But after hearing Chitose's suggestion, this was what Amane chose.

It felt really embarrassing for a guy to buy this stuff alone, if he had Chitose buy this for him, the payment was a pack of crepe from the station shop.

Chitose continued to laugh at him from the chosen passage until the end, and perhaps he would feel too embarrassed if he went alone. Well, since it's already happened, there's no point in regretting it.

"... I think girls might like it."

Amane scratched his head, muttering with an explanation for who it was.

He's really not very good at this.

After all, Amane never gave gifts to someone of a different gender, except to his mother when he was young. He never expected himself to do this.

What Mahiru will feel disgusted to receive cute dolls from guys ... Amane glanced at Mahiru, and saw her staring at the doll sharply.

No one knew if he was happy or sad, he just looked at him calmly.

"Well, I can throw it away if you don't want to."

What can be done if Mahiru doesn't like it, so Amane decides so when he says this in a joking tone. Mahiru scowled as she turned her face to Amane.

"I wouldn't do something like that!"

"Y-yes. Given your personality, I thought you wouldn't do that, Shiina."

His reaction was stronger than Amane expected, and He nodded while tripping. Once again, Mahiru saw the bear.

"... I wouldn't do such a cruel thing. I'll, appreciate it well."

The thin wrist clung tightly to the teddy bear, and hugged it.

He resembles a child who does not want his favorite toy to be picked up, and also the embrace of a loving mother.

One could tell that he really appreciated the teddy bear when he hugged it.

Gyuu, there seemed to be a fitting sound effect as he hugged her firmly, and looked at her.

His facial expression was not his usual indifference, and not the usual surprise whenever he was struck by Amane. It was an expression of relief, kindness, love, and affection.

His smile was so pure. Amane looked at Mahiru's face with bated breath, realizing that she was very beautiful and very adorable.

(~ I shouldn't have seen this.)

He unintentionally had such awareness while staring at his expression.

Although Amane did not fall in love with her, this absolute beauty showed such an expression, which only she could see, and even her heart skipped a beat.

He sees Mahiru appreciating the doll so much, showing a thin smile, looking so adorable that others will be fascinated. Even Amane, who knew his own personality, was almost blown away.

To see how hot his face was, he placed his hand on his face, and it felt much hotter than usual.

Amane was clearly too timid, "... Fuckin." Bump it with a voice that Mahiru can't hear.

Fortunately, Mahiru did not notice him, half her face was buried in a teddy bear as she embraced him lovingly.

Her gaze was adorable, and Amane refrained from screeching.

"... I'm glad you like it."

He wanted to say something, but he said these words, and Mahiru's eyes looked at him.

"This is the first time I've accepted something like this."

"Eh, given your popularity, I thought it would be normal for her ..."

"What do you think I am .."

She sounded somewhat dumbfounded as she looked at Amane, who was a little relieved, as she no longer had to see that face anymore.

".. I never told anyone about my birthday. I don't like it, and I never say it."

I don't like it, he said again, looking at the bear.

The look he had when looking at the bear was so calm, so different from his words, and Amane felt a dissonance there.

"I'm afraid of receiving gifts from people, even those I don't know, or who have nothing to do with me so I won't accept them."

"But you accepted my gift."

"... You're not someone I don't know, Fujimiya-san."

He whispered as he buried his face into the bear as he stared at Amane. He began to regret looking directly at Mahiru.

He subconsciously looked at her, showing a plain face that was relaxed and appropriate for her age. To be honest, she is adorable.

She's so adorable, so Amane inadvertently has a desire to stroke her head, and He'll do that, He hastily canceled it.

(... Just barely.)

If He is too lost, He will stroke Mahiru that day. He finally made her happy, and if she did, all her efforts would be in vain.

"... What's up?"

"No, it's nothing."

Mahiru tilted her head in confusion, either noticing Amane's hand twitching, or the uneasiness exploding within her.

With that alone, his eyes were captured. A beautiful girl is a truly terrifying creature.

But if Amane admits frankly that Mahiru is funny, even he will feel embarrassed. "Huh?" and he was sure the word would be Mahiru's answer.

And if He were to say such words, Amane would be dying in another sense, so He decided to resist this urge for now.

"... Thank you very much, Fujimiya-san."

Amane turned his face away, and Mahiru's soft voice entered his ears once again.

...----------------...

"Hey, hey Amane, is that going well? Which one did you give that gift to?"

Since they went shopping together, he had to report. The next day, Chitose grinned when she heard from Amane.

Amane himself did not mind the fact that he, who was in a different class, came looking for her. However, he smiled like it was something he really did not want to face. He really had the desire to go and get away from her.

"It's not a relationship you're thinking about, and it's not going to happen."

At the very least, he did not choose a gift based on romantic feelings, and had no other intention.

No doubt he is happy, but there is no development that Chitose is waiting for.

"No, but well, is there really no one who can make your heart beat? She was definitely not just an acquaintance, and she was a girl. Come on, give me some gossip here."

"We don't have an unspeakable relationship."

With Itsuki supporting Chitose, Amane could only resist loudly.

Mahiru was happy, yes, but there were still some problems, and Amane did not want to talk about this with anyone else.

He did not want to feed their curiosity, so He answered as seriously as possible, and Itsuki pondered a little as he put his hand on his mouth.

"... Hm. Hey Amane."

"What?"

"Did you give it to your neighbor?"

Really, Itsuki's high consciousness and EQ are a catastrophe for Amane.

"... Why do you think so?"

"If we consider the people you know, or those who care for you, the only ones who fit that criteria are neighbors. You're not a local, you rarely interact with girls, and someone who feeds you recently, so you thank him, right?"

"Who knows."

"Hm ... Amane, you've been looking healthier lately."

"Ah, I think so too!"

"So, she used to give you food, and you wanted to give her a birthday present as a thank you?"

Itsuki was completely right, and Amane did his best not to let his cheeks twitch.

And that is why Itsuki is so scary, because from his conclusion it is as if he witnessed it firsthand. He may look frivolous, but he is serious and considerate, and also rather popular. However, Amane really hoped he would give these aspects only to Chitose.

"You're bringing up with a wild guess now?"

"I don't know the truth, so I just imagined it. So is that true?"

"Who knows."

"Basic stingy."

"Marrel."

"Shut up."

No matter what they say, Amane doesn't want to be honest.

If He accidentally says it, He must shed everything. Putting aside Itsuki, the gossip-loving high school girls will interrogate her like there is no tomorrow.

In this world, there are magical beings who can turn anything unrelated to love into something involving love. They're really troublesome.

Jeez, Amane sighed while stretching his back and returning to the apartment.

It was a tactical resignation, and also an avoidance to the bombing of his heart.

"See you. Please make out as usual and ignore me now."

"We'll do it without you saying it, you know?"

"... Ikkun, let's stalk him and find the girl ..."

"Who would also want to say that in front of his target directly? And you don't have that thought at all. What you're gonna do the most is come to my apartment gate."

"Sad."

Her cute lips started to pout, but her eyes looked serious.

At this point, Amane felt shivering realizing that Chitose was not joking, and would actually do so, so he immediately left both of them behind and hurriedly left the classroom.

...----------------...

"... That was almost."

"What's the problem?"

As soon as He returned home, Amane exclaimed, and Mahiru asked him curiously.

It was still too soon to make dinner, even though Mahiru arrived here after buying the ingredients. The two were resting for a while, and a small whisper of Amane sounded.

Just to note, Mahiru is still the same as usual.

The smile he had shown the previous day was no longer visible. His usual expression was such that one would doubt whether he was dreaming. This should have been normal, or rather, Amane hoped he would be like this. If Mahiru showed the same expression as she did the previous day, Amane would feel her heart ache.

"No, well, Itsuki and the others were gossiping about the gift."

Because I discussed this with them, he said in a satirical tone, and sighed. It seemed like Mahiru had remembered Itsuki's name, "Ahh, so apparently." and she also sighed.

"Well, because it doesn't look like the stuff you're going to buy, Fujimiya-san."

"No, that's what I mean?"

They already felt that it was impossible for Amane to give gifts to girls, and that was why they wondered if He was in love.

In fact, no one has a sweet, sour, or bitter feeling about falling in love.

"My own problem. Oh, my God, what did they guess, anyway?"

It is true that Mahiru is beautiful, and He has a desire to touch her. Amane could not deny that.

But He felt every guy would feel this way, and after all, his heart was only filled a few times when He once again realized that Mahiru was a very beautiful girl. Maybe it was a feeling of love.

Even if Amane likes Mahiru's character, he doesn't think to form such a relationship with her.

He glanced to the side, and saw the usual beautiful face of Mahiru.

However, his heart was not pounding like last night. Again He confirmed that He was not in love with Mahiru, and sighed.

One must be wondering what he would say if Mahiru realized that he was being noticed by Amane, so he turned his gaze to the phone, and saw an unread number on the chat app icon.

It might be from Itsuki, Amane thought while opening the app, but the name on the new message was unexpected.

As soon as Amane saw Shihoko's name, he frowned.

Amane had several female contacts, three of them, including her.

They are Chitose, Mahiru, and her ~ mothers.

Now what? He thought while opening the conversation. It contained a message that made him lazy to respond to it, something like how his test was, whether he had any difficulties in his life, and so on.

The reason why he was bad at dealing with Chitose was because there was someone like Chitose .. or rather, the older Chitose in his family. Amane did not hate him, and could not do so, but his own mother's personality was too exaggerated for him.

『His grandfather sent fruits, so I sent some for you. It will be delivered on Saturday. Stay home in the afternoon! I won't forgive you if you refuse or aren't home, got it?』

"Just decide my schedule like that ..."

Amane has no plans for Saturday, and doesn't mind staying home, but can he call her early?

"What's the problem?"

Mahiru probably heard Amane muttering as she looked towards him with her usual expression.

"Mother wants to deliver the fruit she received from grandfather. Maybe an apple."

"Do you know how to peel it?"

"... With a peeler, maybe?"

"Indeed .. but it's a waste of the nutrients that are in the apples."

My mother also said the same thing, Amane thought, but he swallowed the idea.

"I'll eat it at once with the skin."

"That's barbaric."

"I'm lazy, you know."

"That's lazy of you."

Amane could only show a wry smile at Mahiru's usual outspoken demeanor, and shrugged.

While Mahiru looked stunned, "Well, after all it will go into the stomach." but she kind of relented.

"Oh yeah. I don't know if I can finish it all before it rots. Do you want a little too, Shiina?"

"Then I will gladly accept it. Fruits are expensive."

His words may seem taut, but they really suit him.

"It's Saturday, isn't it? I'll prepare lunch as a thank you."

"I'm always taken care of."

"That's fine. I don't hate cooking for you, Fujimiya-san."

Kusu, he said while making a sincere little smile.

Amane averted his eyes awkwardly as his smile reminded him of what had happened the previous day, "... I'll leave it to you." So He answered briefly.